As the day broke, the Muslims rose and gathered for the morning prayer. Everyone had a different air about them compared to their usual demeanor. After the prayer, our Master (saw) gathered the Muslims and addressed them with the following speech:

“Praise belongs to Allah, the Rabb of the Worlds, to whom we are incapable of rendering full praise. O Muslims, I convey to you all that Allah has commanded and forbidden. Verily, Allah rewards the good with good according to His eternal knowledge.

Indeed, Allah does not accept deeds done for any other purpose than His pleasure. When patience is shown for the sake of Allah in times of distress and hardship, He removes all affliction, sorrow, and grief. In the Hereafter, He grants eternal serenity and salvation.

Know that the Rasul of Allah warns you against Allah’s punishment, advises you, and issues commands. Avoid, today as well, any actions that would lead to Allah’s displeasure.

Allah says, ‘The hatred of Allah is greater than your hatred of yourselves...’[1]

So, turn to the commandments of Allah and fulfill them. Cling to Allah’s book and His commandments. Seek Allah’s pleasure, for it is He who will bring you honor after disgrace.

Do not forget Allah’s promise of mercy and forgiveness. On this day, stand firm in your place and pass the test, for Allah’s promise is true, and His punishment is severe.

Indeed, we belong to Allah, the Ever-Living (Hayy) and the Sustainer of existence (Qayyum[2]). We have sought refuge in Him, clung to Him, and placed our trust in Him. Ultimately, our return is to Him.

May Allah forgive us all.”

This sermon greatly inspired the Muslims, and they were eager to face death, ready to sacrifice everything to fulfill Allah’s commandments.

Afterward, our Master asked them, “How will you fight against the polytheists of the Quraysh?” One of his companions, Asib bin Sabit, stood up, took a bow and arrow, and demonstrated what they would do.

“O Rasul of Allah, when the Quraysh come within bowshot range, I will rain arrows down upon them. Then, as they come closer and enter the range of stones, I will begin to pelt them with rocks. Finally, as they come within spear range, I will try to incapacitate them by thrusting with my spear until my sword is needed. And when my sword is needed, I will engage with it, whether it means I die or kill my opponent.”

Our Master approved of this response, saying, “This is exactly what should be done during the battle. Those who engage with the Quraysh should act just like this.”